Look out Siri – here comes Cortana

There was a time Microsoft assumed you lived completely in its universe. Well, it took some time, but it has moved into the new world and is building its software to work across almost every platform. So it’s not a huge surprise to read its announcement of a Cortana iOS app.

Cortana is personal assistant software, similar to Siri. You simply ask Cortana a question and it seeks an answer.

It’s been around since Windows Phone 8.1, but is also part of the new Windows 10 operating system that will be available later this year. According to Microsoft, it will “work with the ‘Phone Companion’ app built-in to Windows 10, which will help connect your Windows PC to whatever phone you own – whether it’s a Windows phone, Android phone or iPhone”.

Cortana can be used to set reminders and alarms, track flights and other tasks. Cortana has a Notebook that will appear on all your devices with changes automatically synced across devices.